Technical difficulties did not deter Diane Martindale from presenting a precise and informative view of the history and current exhibitions and programs of San Juan Island Museum of Art (SJIMA). While not an artist herself, she has been passionate about the arts since a child, and her creativity is alive through her design and sale of art quilts. She has a BS in Biology (U of Illinois) and MS in Microbiology from Rutgers University. As well as heading SJIMA, President of its board, Diane was Chair of WA State Arts Commission for nine years and continues as a member. Also, Diane was instrumental in establishing Friday Harbor Arts Commission.
"Art museums bring serenity, curiosity, help us see the world through the eyes of others. SJIMA exhibitions emphasize our shared humanity, values, love of our special place, and address social issues of our time. Diversity, social issues and inclusion are important to the museum. We aim to engage and explore current issues: consumerism, environmental problems, endangered species, plastics, pollution, and regional indigenous peoples' art. We bring DEA to the islands with artists, speakers, and programs."
"We've been open for several months with all the precautions for Covid in place. We require masks, three ventilation systems, UV sterilizer runs at night."
Programs: Adult Workshops, Free Family Art Days (expanded to year-round program), Docent Program, Art as a Voice lectures, panels and events.
Exhibitions: 2015 Opening show: William Morris. 2016 "Fault Line" Ai Weiwei (the most famous artist in the world). We were the only museum on the West Coast to have his exhibition). First Nation Exhibition with Indigenous People ceremony. 2019 My War: Vietnam Veterans photographs. "Food for Thought" Robert Dash photographer (National Geographic 2/22), Annual Artists' Registry Exhibit. Refer to their excellent website for listing all exhibitions and activities. www.sjima.org.
VOLUNTEER! Special event needs help on May 28, Appraisal Day (our own Antique Road Show).
Diane's favorite visitor quote: You are a small museum but you punch above your weight.
